Over 1.2 million fishing licenses were sold in Arkansas in 2022, an impressive 10% increase from 2021 numbers. With fishing regulations evolving year-to-year, understanding license requirements is essential to legally and responsibly enjoy Arkansas’ abundant waterways. This article will provide a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to easily purchase an Arkansas fishing license online.
Types of Licenses Available
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission offers various license options depending on your residency status and intended fishing plans:
- Resident Licenses – For Arkansas residents. Annual options allow fishing state-wide for a full year from date of purchase. 1-day and 3-day licenses also available.
- Nonresident Licenses – For non-residents. Same license durations available but at a higher rate. Additional specialty licenses offered like the popular 3-day WMA Permit.
- Specialty Licenses – Various short-term specialty licenses offered. Examples include the Free Fishing Weekend License, Paddlefish Permit, Trout Permit, etc.
Review license details on the AGFC website to determine the best option based on your needs. Most allow fishing for a wide variety of popular species like largemouth bass, catfish, crappie, trout, and more.
Step-by-Step Guide to Purchase Online
Purchasing an Arkansas fishing license online through the AGFC website takes just a few quick steps:
- Create an account – You’ll first need to create a user account which serves as your online profile for managing licenses and permits. Enter your contact information and create a secure password.
- Enter personal information – Confirm your residency status and enter details like date of birth that are required for licensing purposes.
- Select license type – Based on the info provided in your account, you will be shown license options you are eligible for. Select the specific type of license you need.
- Enter payment – Safely enter payment information to complete your purchase. Major credit cards accepted.
- Print temporary license – You’ll instantly be emailed a temporary PDF license that can be printed and carried while fishing until your permanent license arrives by mail within 2 weeks.
Once purchased, licenses can be managed online through your AGFC account. You’ll receive reminders to renew when licenses expire so you never accidentally fish with an invalid license.
Key License Details
- Carry your printed license while fishing as proof of valid licensing. Digital copies on phones are not sufficient.
- License renewal prior to expiration is essential to legally fish year-to-year.
- Fishing without a valid license carries hefty fines of $200 or more.
- Free Fishing Weekends occur periodically when no license is needed for 2 days. Check the AGFC site for exact dates.
- Review exact fishing regulations for particular waterways and species on the AGFC website.
Conclusion
I hope this guide gave you a thorough understanding of how straightforward it is to purchase an Arkansas fishing license online. With an account created on the AGFC website, the few step process takes just minutes.
Responsibly enjoying Arkansas’ plentiful fishing opportunities starts with having the proper licensing. Don’t take the risk of fishing without a license or with an expired license. Fines can be steep.
Follow the recommendations outlined here to legally and successfully cast your line in The Natural State! Let the reel screaming begin!
